Correct Option
Under the central administrative machinery of Akbar's reign, the Mir Bakshi was the head of the military department. His primary responsibilities included maintaining army payrolls, organizing troops, recruitment, and overseeing the intelligence services. He functioned as the paymaster general of the army, rather than the Commander-in-Chief. All intelligence officers (Barids) and news reporters (Waqia-navis) reported directly to him.
Incorrect Options
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(1) Diwan: The Diwan was the head of the revenue and finance department. His role was distinct from military administration, focusing on financial management, land revenue assessment, and collection.
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(3) Mir Saman: The Mir Saman was responsible for managing the imperial household, including the royal karkhanas (workshops), stores, and supplies for the emperor and the court. His duties were related to the domestic and logistical needs of the palace, not the military.
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(4) Bakshi: While 'Bakshi' was a general term for a military paymaster or officer within the Mughal administration, the specific designation 'Mir Bakshi' was reserved for the head of the central military department. Therefore, 'Bakshi' alone does not refer to the chief of the military department.